4 Things to Do Before Q4 Begins

As the leaves start to fall and the calendar inches toward Q4, there’s no better time to take control of your financial future. Whether you're managing retirement savings, taxes, or charitable giving, September is the perfect month to take stock and make proactive moves. Here are four key actions to consider before the end-of-year crunch sets in.

1. Review Your Financial Goals

Take a moment to revisit your goals:

• Are you still on track to hit your 2025 savings or debt reduction targets?

• Have there been any big life changes—like a job shift, new home, or new child?

• Do your spending and investment habits still align with your long-term plans?

If something’s off course, adjusting now gives you time to fix it.

2. Get Ahead on Tax Planning

Don’t wait until December to think about taxes. Some key strategies work best when

implemented early:

• Tax-loss harvesting to offset gains

• Adjusting withholdings or estimated tax payments

• Planning charitable contributions (or funding a donor-advised fund)

Getting ahead can reduce stress—and possibly your tax bill—later.

3. Max Out Retirement Contributions

Are you making the most of your tax-advantaged accounts?

2025 contribution limits:

• 401(k): $23,000 (or $30,500 if you're 50+)

• IRA/Roth IRA: $7,000 (or $8,000 if you're 50+)

• HSA: $4,150 individual / $8,300 family

Check your current contributions and consider bumping them up now if you're behind.

4. Plan for RMDs or Roth Conversions

If you're age 73 or older, remember:

• Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs) must be taken by year-end to avoid penalties.

If you're in a lower tax bracket this year, consider:

• A Roth conversion strategy to reduce future taxable income.

These decisions are complex, but incredibly valuable when timed correctly.

Wrap-Up

Getting these tasks done in September means you’re ahead of the curve—and can enjoy Q4 with fewer financial headaches. It also allows time to respond if course corrections are needed.